Networks

A network is a collection of terminals, computers, servers, and components which allows for the easy flow of data and use of resources between one another. Domino’s uses a wide rnge of networks. The main one is built with Nortel Networks (NYSE/TSE: NT) equipment, and it supports the company's focus on improving customer service and operating efficiencies that have made Domino's the world leader in pizza delivery. Domino's relies on the new infrastructure that creates robust and highly reliable local and wide area network (LAN, WAN) environments that serve not only their branches and corporate offices in US but also in foreign countries. The strategy of their network is to create a dynamic and robust environment with end-to-end management to accommodate all of the company's data-intensive needs now and in the future. At the forefront of those needs is the ability to share information more quickly between Domino's network of corporate and regional offices and food distribution points, resulting in improved decision-making and customer service.

The data analysis also includes information on pizza sales, allowing corporate management to closely track customer sales by item size and type, which in turn helps them more effectively project sales and manage inventories. In addition, the new network ultimately will facilitate on-line, just-in-time ordering of dough, cheese and other ingredients from Domino's regional warehouse distribution centers, speeding processing and delivery, and assuring fresher products for consumers.

Key administrative functions also are being facilitated through the back-office infrastructure. These include payroll processing, personnel records, and other human resources functions, as well as access to safe driving records on potential delivery hires. Use of the Internet for email, departmental intranets and other applications also flourish with the robust network.

Domino's LAN and WAN infrastructure features a collapsed backbone network with two Nortel Networks' Accelar routing switches, connected 1800 feet apart by fiber optic cable. Nortel Networks' Distributed 5000 intelligent hubs connect into the company's wiring closets, with System 5000 backbone chassis installed in the largest of the closets. Nortel Networks' BayStack 350 and 450 10/100 switches are used for uplinks from hubs and server connections. Nortel Networks' Access Node (AN) routers provide connectivity to remote sites. The company also is using the Nortel Networks' Optivity Network Management System suite of network management tools to monitor and configure equipment. Domino's uses Nortel Networks' compression technology to reduce communications costs.